People of Color in America experience consistent exposure to traumatic incidents directed at our communities, whether in person, on television, or through social media. The wide-spread news of random attacks and killings of Black people and PoC enhance fear, sadness, worry and so much more.

While awareness can spur action that results in change, it can also take an emotional toll on us that can impact other facets of our lives like school, work and interpersonal relationships. These challenges can sadly lead to the development or exacerbation of mental health concerns.  

So, how can we become resilient and fight to protect our peace? How do we begin the healing process?

I want to share some healing affirmations (that I use regularly) to help:

• I am committed to my healing – We must first acknowledge what we feel. We can’t heal what we don’t acknowledge. And what we do not consciously acknowledge will remain in control of us from within, festering, destroying, wreaking havoc both for us and those around us. It’s okay to acknowledge, admit, and recognize your emotions and struggles. This is the first step to healing.
• I prepare for my healing step by step – Healing is not a one-time event. It’s a process and sometimes it can be a long one.  At times, we may unintentionally take steps backwards, diagonally, or sideways. But what’s important is that we don’t stop, we don’t quit. We keep moving forward, taking one step at a time toward our healing.
• I am blessed by the wisdom of my ancestors – Continue honoring and being grateful to the ancestors for what we are now and what we can be in the future because of their examples. Continue being inspired by their vision (for those of us who are of color, this primarily meant seeking our freedom and our rights)).

I’ve had the joy of collaborating with Daniel H. Gillison, CEO of NAMI, who once said “Mental health conditions don’t discriminate, and neither should our mental health system. We are calling for systematic change and improved access to culturally competent care, so no one feels alone in their journey.”

With all the challenges and threats to our very personhood, we must never forget that we are not alone in this journey.  You are seen, You are heard and You are valued.  I hope that you will never be afraid of how society sees you and that you will never forget your true intrinsic value.

Try to remember that you are loved, you contribute a lot to this world, and you are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. When we show up for ourselves, regularly and consistently, we leave little room for others to invade our peace.

Love, Light, Science,

Dr. Alfiee